Fly fishing in the area around Derby - when is the best time to fish

Fly fishing in the area around Derby - when is the best time to fish

The best place in Tasmania to catch trout is the northeast region, particularly around Derby. Nestled amidst stunning landscapes and pristine waters, Derby offers anglers access to rivers like the Ringarooma, renowned for its abundant trout populations. Its picturesque surroundings and thriving trout habitats make it a prime fishing destination.

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Escape to Derby, Tasmania: A Floating Sauna experience

Recent guest Dave headed to Derby in search of an opportunity to relax and refresh. He found what he needed floating not far from River Cabins Derby….

Seeking a weekend getaway that would revitalise my spirit, I discovered the epitome of relaxation in Derby on Lake Derby: the floating sauna.

Perched on the edge of the lake just a short walk from my cabin the sauna's black and white exterior seamlessly blends with the stunning lake, beckoning me to embark on a journey of relaxation. After booking online I was greeted at the edge of the lake by a friendly host who directed me to the white changing cabin via a short bridge that connects the sauna to the shore.

Inside, the sauna embraced me with its gentle warmth. A one piece glass front window provides panoramic views of the serene lake and the lush hills and forests beyond. I settled onto the bench, allowing the heat to permeate my weary muscles. As the crackling wood stove filled the air with its comforting sound, I closed my eyes and let the stress of everyday life melt away.

After enjoying some time in the sauna's sweating it out , I went onto the deck and dived into the embrace of the lakes cold water. The contrast of hot and cold created an invigorating sensation, awakening every cell in my body, I couldn’t help but let out a scream (was it pleasure or pain!?) that echoed around the lake... Lucky there was no one around to hear it!

I repeated these steps over a few times more before my time was up. Heating and sweating, and relaxing, and then jumping in the lake and swimming out a little away from the floating pontoon that holds the sauna.

In Derby, time seemed to slow down, allowing me to savor every precious moment. The floating sauna on Lake Derby had transported me to a realm of pure relaxation, where the cares of the world were left behind. - Dave L

Embark on your own escape to Derby, Tasmania, and let the floating sauna on Lake Derby rejuvenate your senses.. It's time to indulge, to unwind, and to embark on a journey of self-discovery in this enchanting corner of the world.

New trails in Blue Derby - Hazy Days.

Blue Derby, Tasmania, has long been renowned as a premier mountain biking destination, and the addition of the new trail, Hazy Days, has only enhanced its reputation. Hazy Days is a thrilling and exhilarating mountain bike trail that offers riders a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.

The trail begins at the picturesque Black Stump Trailhead and winds its way through the enchanting forests and rugged terrains of the region. Hazy Days is designed to cater to riders of all skill levels, making it accessible to both beginners and seasoned professionals. The trail offers a perfect blend of technical challenges and flowing sections, ensuring an exciting and diverse ride for everyone.

One of the standout features of Hazy Days is its stunning scenery. The trail takes full advantage of the natural landscape, creating a harmonious blend of adrenaline-pumping descents and serene, picturesque surroundings.

Hazy Days is meticulously crafted, with features such as berms, jumps, and easy features strategically placed along the trail to keep riders engaged and entertained. The trail's well-maintained surface ensures a smooth and enjoyable ride, allowing bikers to focus on the sheer joy of their mountain biking experience.

The addition of Hazy Days to the Blue Derby trail network has further solidified the region's status as a world-class mountain biking destination. With its stunning natural beauty, thrilling challenges, and accessible design, Hazy Days has quickly become a favorite among riders from around the world.

Whether you're seeking an adrenaline rush, a connection with nature, or simply a memorable outdoor adventure, Hazy Days delivers on all fronts. Strap on your helmet, get ready to conquer the trails, and immerse yourself in the exhilarating journey that is Hazy Days in Blue Derby, Tasmania.

To see more about easy trails in Derby visit our blog post on the Valley Pods Trail.

Blue Derby MTB Experience - link ups and suggested ride guide

Blue Derby MTB Experience - link ups and suggested ride guide

The Derby MTB trail network is home to over 91km of dedicated cycling trails with something for everyone. You have arrived at your accommodation here at River Cabins Derby and the night before you pull out the trail map…
For first time guests it can be a bit daunting to put together a plan for where to ride so we have done some of the work for you by putting together some of our suggested trail link ups.

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Derby mountain bike shops, hire and MTB shuttle day tours

Derby mountain bike shops, hire and MTB shuttle day tours

Derby is a mountain bike rider town, which means not only are there lots of great trails for riding but also options for buying and hiring bikes in town. In this post we give you an overview of the options for hiring a bike and booking a day trip or shuttle.

Put simply a shuttle is transport to the highest vehicle accessed part of any given trail. Depending on which trail you ride, the drop-off point will either be at the start of the trails down or you may have to ride up a bit more before you start doing the fun bit (descending).

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The easiest (and most beautiful) trail in Derby - an introduction to MTB

The easiest (and most beautiful) trail in Derby - an introduction to MTB

At just over 9km the trail is fun, but mostly importantly for those who are starting out it introduces some trail features that you will find on other parts of the Blue Derby trail network, such as berms, rollers and shallow river crossings.

As you get used to your bike, and riding on dirt, your confidence will improve and you might feel ready to head out onto some of the more challenging trails around Derby.

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Mt Paris dam - a relic of the past that's worth a visit today

Mt Paris dam - a relic of the past that's worth a visit today

Sitting above Derby is a hulking grey relic of the towns mining past which is today being overgrown by the forest which surrounds it, Mt Paris Dam.

Built by hand between 1935 and 1936 to hold back the Cascade River so that the water could be used for the Mt Paris Tin Mine located some 11km away. Today it is a great afternoon or morning destination for visitors to Derby.

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A journey around Derby - the influence of the humble fungi

A journey around Derby - the influence of the humble fungi

Having just arrived in Derby, and with rain on the way, we were keen to get out on the trails to find our flow, the classic Kingswall loop was on the cards. There were 4 in our crew and we were riding at our own pace up the Stig Track, taking in the stunning surroundings. As we snaked our way up the hill, we made it into the damp and dark forest, when out of the corner of my eye I noticed something red...

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Blue Tier descent with a pub lunch

Blue Tier descent with a pub lunch

You’ve had an early start, bombed it down The Blue Tier trail and need a place to park you and your bike down for a feed.
Look no further than The Weldborough an old and charming country pub which dates back to 1860. With rustic wooden tables nestled under the trees, this quaint beer garden is a lunchtime oasis for mountain bikers.

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Two of the best golf courses in the world can be enjoyed near Derby... find out where.

Two of the best golf courses in the world can be enjoyed near Derby... find out where.

Less than an hour’s drive from Derby are two of Tasmania’s best golf courses, in fact they are equal to the best you’ll play anywhere in the world. Barnbougle Dunes and sister course Lost Farm are nestled on the shore of Anderson Bay. Suitable for all standards of player the courses have wide fairways to accommodate the variety of winds which can sweep the course.

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Bevvy’s, Buddies, Bikes - an unexpected surprise at Briseis Dam

Bevvy’s, Buddies, Bikes - an unexpected surprise at Briseis Dam

We’d just arrived in Derby, unpacked our bags and already the boys were chomping at the bit to get on the bikes and start the adventure. I’m not a mountain biker by any stretch of the imagination (I’d tagged along this holiday under the promise of a cosy fireplace and free-flowing wine) and the thought of climbing up the hill they were pointing out to me was filling me with fear….

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